Licensing Guides
Michigan HVAC License: How to Become an HVAC Contractor in Michigan
HVAC, MI
Table of Contents
How Long Does it Take to Get an HVAC Contractors License in Michigan?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an HVAC License in Michigan
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed HVAC Work in Michigan?
Learning a trade requires hard work and determination. You can’t rush the process, but the time you put into learning how to become an HVACR technician or contractor can lead to a career that is long-lasting, lucrative, and fulfilling. There are 425,200 heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers nationwide, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Michigan employs 13,720 of them.
Employment is projected to grow 8% from 2024 to 2034 throughout the country, adding more than 40,000 of these skilled workers to the ranks. In Michigan, that growth rate is slightly lower — projected at 5% — according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website.
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Contractors struggle to find skilled tradesmen like plumbers, electricians, and HVACR or mechanical professionals while the demand for them continues to grow. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, “Construction employment in Michigan in July 2025 totaled 206,500, an increase of 10,100 (5.1%) from July 2024 and an increase of 28,700 or 16% from February 2020.” So, if you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from when you’re ready.
A large part of what HVAC contractors and technicians do is replace and repair existing HVAC systems. As more emphasis is placed on energy efficiency and reducing pollution, systems need to be retrofitted, upgraded or replaced entirely to comply with these new standards. Licensing requirements for HVAC contractors vary from state to state and, in some cases, from locality to locality. Michigan licensure is uniform statewide.
Licensing Requirements for HVAC Contractors in Michigan
Is a license required to work as an HVAC/Mechanical Contractor in Michigan? Yes. To legally perform heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration work in the state of Michigan, you must be a licensed Mechanical Contractor or a technician trainee working under someone who is licensed. Michigan doesn’t issue HVAC journeyman or master licenses.
Mechanical Contractor licenses are issued through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). The Bureau of Construction Codes, Mechanical Division licenses Mechanical Contractors in a variety of classifications and specialties.
In 2017, the Skilled Trades Regulation Act became law and consolidated regulations for five skilled trade industries, including mechanical and HVACR, to create one uniform code that streamlined and made the application, testing, and renewal processes for these skilled trades consistent.
Michigan mechanical license requirements include obtaining experience, completing a licensing examination, submitting an application, and paying all applicable fees.
Types of HVAC Licenses in Michigan
What are the types of HVAC/Mechanical licenses in Michigan?
Michigan offers a Mechanical Contractor license with multiple classifications.
According to the Bureau of Construction Codes, Mechanical Contractors can perform installations, alterations, servicing, and secure permits when licensed in one of the classifications below.
Hydronic heating and cooling and process piping
HVAC equipment
Ductwork
Refrigeration
Limited heating service
Unlimited heating service
Limited refrigeration and air conditioning service
Unlimited refrigeration and air conditioning service
Fire suppression
Specialty license
Solar heating and cooling
Solid fuel and vented decorative gas appliances
LP distribution piping
Fuel gas piping
Fuel gas piping and venting
You must obtain three years of experience to qualify for the initial license, and each additional classification requires three years of experience. Most people continue to add classifications as they progress through their HVAC career.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
Must work under a licensed Mechanical Contractor.
Submit license application.
Pay the $20 fee.
Note: You cannot renew this license; it is meant as a stepping stone to lead to full licensing.
Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
Must obtain three years or 6,000 hours of verifiable experience under a licensed Mechanical Contractor. Note: You can submit one year of experience for successfully completing a two-year, or equivalent, HVAC program provided by a recognized trade school, community college, or university, or a two-year HVAC training program approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Must pass a licensing exam administered by PSI.
Pay the $300 license fee.
Submit your license application online or mail it to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
Steps to Get an HVAC License in Michigan
Be at least 18 years of age.
Have a high school diploma or GED Certificate.
Acquire three years of work experience under a licensed Mechanical Contractors; OR
Attend a formal HVAC diploma or certificate program or earn a two-year degree at a community college, vocational/trade school, or university, or get a formal apprenticeship through a local union or trade organization or an informal apprenticeship. Note: A diploma or certificate only qualifies for one of the needed three years of experience.
Apply for your Mechanical Contractor License through LARA and pay a $300 application fee.
Once approved through the Mechanical Division, pay a testing fee and pass the licensing exam.
As you acquire the required three years of experience in other work classifications, add them to your mechanical contractor license.
Benefits of Getting an HVAC License in Michigan
There are many benefits to getting your Michigan HVACR/Mechanical license:
Most important, it is required by law in Michigan to be licensed through the state to perform heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration work.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
Only licensed Mechanical contractors can: operate a business and advertise services, obtain commercial insurance, pull building permits and pass inspections, bid on public and government projects.
Having a license protects your company and customers.
A license gives you a competitive advantage in the job market.
It also increases your earning potential.
What Is the Mean Wage for an HVAC Technician in Michigan?
The annual mean wage for HVAC mechanics and installers in Michigan is $61,120, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, that salary can increase, as you might expect, as you acquire more experience. An HVAC technician salary database, shared with ServiceTitan by Payscale.com, projects the median HVAC technician salary will increase nationally in 2025 by 3.44% for entry-level workers, 3.46% for intermediate level, 3.62% for senior level HVAC professionals, and 3.53% for supervisors. In Michigan, those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $53,200
Intermediate (2-4 years): $64,600
Senior (4-7 years): $75,900
Supervisor (>7 years): $89,300
The meaning of a “mean” and “median” can be confusing. Here is the difference:
Mean tells you the mathematical average.
Median tells you the point at which 50% of workers make less and 50% make more, and is usually a better indicator of what most people actually earn.
Salaries can vary widely depending on the city where you work and other factors like education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. If you choose to start an HVAC business, this blog can give you an idea of what you can expect to make and what factors will influence that number.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of an HVAC technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan’s cloud-based, all-in-one HVAC software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive average tickets.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an HVAC License in Michigan?
The cost to register as a Mechanic Trainee is only $20.
If you decide to attend a community college or trade school to complement your work experience, you can expect to pay $5,506 per year for in-state students and $7,381 for out-of-state students.
Once you’ve gained work experience, you’ll need to pay a $300 license fee. If seeking the HVAC Equipment classification, the exam fee is $100. The exam fee for all other classifications is $50.
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How to Get an HVAC License in Michigan
An HVAC career path refers to the different positions you can advance to as your skills and experience in HVAC develop. In Michigan, becoming an HVAC/Mechanical professional isn’t fast, but it’s very straightforward.
APPRENTICESHIP/WORK EXPERIENCE: You will need to be at least 18 years old and have graduated from high school or earned a GED equivalent. The state of Michigan requires anyone entering the HVAC industry to register as a trainee so you can begin obtaining experience. Note: The trainee license can’t be renewed, so you can’t work indefinitely as a trainee.
To become eligible for a Mechanical Contractor license, you need to obtain a minimum of three years of work experience under a licensed contractor. Earning an associate degree can account for one year of work experience.
TAKE LICENSING EXAM: You must pass a state exam for every classification you seek. Exams are administered by PSI. There are seven testing centers in Michigan, in Dearborn, Holt, Southfield, Grand Rapids, Gaylord, and Marquette. The fee for the HVAC Equipment classification is $100, while all other classifications cost $50. You must score at least 75% to pass.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: After passing an examination, you will need to apply to LARA for your license. You can set up a profile and apply online or print out the application and email it to: larabcc-licensing@michigan.gov. You must include the $300 license fee.
BACKGROUND CHECK: You don’t have to go through a formal background check, but you will be required to check a box in your license application that reads “If I had a judgement of guilt in a criminal proceeding or a civil action against me, I am rehabilitated, or the substance of my former offense is not reasonably related to the occupation or profession for which I am seeking a license.”
Check out our blog post to learn about the 11 Key HVAC Skills Every Technician Should Have. And, if you choose to pursue owning your own business, you’ll need to stay on top of the changing regulations.
How Long Does it Take to Get an HVAC Contractors License in Michigan?
It will take a minimum of three years or 6,000 hours of work experience before you become eligible for a Mechanical Contractor license. Any additional classifications you add to your license also require three years of experience.
Michigan HVAC Training Programs and Schools
Since the state of Michigan requires HVAC professionals to begin their career journey as a registered trainee, you don’t have to gain educational experience. However, you may want to build your knowledge base by attending a trade school or community college. Earning an HVAC diploma or certificate from an approved program can count toward one of the three years of necessary work experience.
There are currently two main organizations that approve HVAC programs and schools nationwide: HVAC Excellence and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA).
Each of those organizations has accredited one school in Michigan.
HVAC Excellence has accredited Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor.
PAHRA has accredited Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids.
Here's a list of the best HVAC schools in Michigan:
Niche: 2026 Best Colleges with HVAC and Refrigeration Engineering Technician Degrees in Michigan
Tuition: Tuition at Michigan Community Colleges is assessed based on residency and class load. You can expect to pay $5,506 per year for in-state students and $7,381 for out-of-state students.
Apprenticeship: There are different kinds of apprenticeships available in Michigan. You can apply for a union training program like the ones offered through Plumbers, Steamfitters & HVACR Service Tech's Local 85 in Saginaw or UA Local 190 out of Ann Arbor.
Or you could choose a non-union training program through a trade organization like the Michigan Plumbing & Mechanical Contractor’s Association. Or you could simply apply for one of the apprentice positions listed on ZipRecruiter or Indeed to see if an employer will sponsor you.
Program Prerequisites: You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED.
On-the-Job Experience: While on the job you will need good customer service skills, be detail-oriented, have some mechanical capability, and be physically fit because the job can include some heavy lifting and hours of walking, standing, and working in tight spaces.
For more detailed information about HVAC school options in Michigan, check out our Ultimate Guide to HVAC Schools in Michigan.
Michigan HVAC Mechanical Licensing Exam Details
The examination is administered by PSI, which has seven testing locations around the state. Click this link to learn more about registration, exam fees, testing centers, the exam prep and study guides for each exam, and rescheduling your appointment. A score of 75% or above is required to pass each exam, and most exams are open book. All exams cost $50, except for the HVAC Equipment exam, which costs $100.
How Can I Prepare for the HVAC License Exam in Michigan?
The official Candidate Bulletin provides full details for all 14 of the Mechanical Contractor exams. All exams contain 55 questions, except for the HVAC Equipment exam, which has 100 questions. Most exams are open book and have a 60-minute time limit. Exams cover topics like the Michigan Mechanical Code, the Michigan State Construction Code, installation of heating and air conditioning systems, ductwork, piping, and more. Make sure to check the Candidate Bulletin to learn more about your specific exam.
Who Issues HVAC Licenses in Michigan?
Mechanical Contractor licenses are issued through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Construction Codes, Mechanical Division.
Does My Michigan HVAC License Work in Any Other State?
Michigan does not have a broad reciprocity agreement for Mechanical Contractor licenses with other states. However, some states will waive exam and or experience requirements if their training requirements are equal to those of Michigan.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an HVAC License in Michigan?
Michigan currently doesn’t have reciprocal agreements with any other states for the Mechanical Contractor license.
HVAC Specific Requirements: EPA Certification
Throughout the country, including in Michigan, federal-level EPA regulations under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act require that technicians who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere must be certified. EPA Section 608 HVAC Certification is required for any professional who conducts refrigerant line-pressure tests or handles or adds refrigerant to existing air conditioning systems.
Most training programs can direct you to how and where to get that certification, or your employer will require you to get it before handling refrigerant. You can also go to EPA.gov and key in 608 Certification in the search bar to find out which institutions in your state offer certification programs. All apprenticeships will include this preparation and testing.
Take Certification Exam: You must acquire your EPA Certification from an approved organization. A list of these organizations can be found on the EPA’s website. There are four types of EPA Certifications for Refrigerants. They allow for different levels of certification for different scopes of work.
Type I – for servicing small appliances containing five pounds of refrigerant or less.
Type II – for servicing high-pressure units that contain five pounds or more of refrigerant (including most small commercial and residential systems).
Type III – for servicing or disposing of low-pressure appliances.
Universal – for servicing all systems and appliances covered under Types I, II, and III. Generally more useful than targeting any one specific certification.
Core Exam
For all certifications, you must pass the “Core Section” of the EPA certification exam. It covers the following topics:
Ozone depletion
Clean Air Act and the Montreal Protocol
Section 608 regulations
Substitute refrigerants and oils
Refrigeration
The Three R’s (Recover, Recycle, Reclaim)
Recovery techniques
Dehydration evacuation
Safety
Shipping
National HVAC Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. North American Technical Excellence (NATE) certification, ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers) certification, and other professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability as a service provider and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Other Requirements Unique to Michigan
Mechanical contractor licenses expire every three years. You should receive notice at least 60 days before expiration with renewal instructions.
Are There HVAC Scholarships in Michigan?
Yes, there are HVACR scholarships in Michigan. Options include:
Ferris State University: The university offers multiple scholarships to students enrolled in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Programs at Ferris State University.
MI Achievement Scholarship: Awards up to $5,500 to students enrolled at both Michigan universities and community colleges.
The Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Educational Foundation teams up with industry partners to provide scholarships to students pursuing a career in the plumbing, heating and cooling industry, too. The application period runs from January until May 1, and then the scholarship committee selects the winners.
How Can Someone Verify My HVAC License in Michigan?
LARA maintains an online database where potential clients or employers can verify a Mechanical Contractor license. You can search via:
Name
Business name
License type
License number
City, state
When Can an HVAC License Be Suspended in Michigan?
A suspended Mechanical license means that the license holder is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Some of the common reasons that Michigan Mechanical licenses can be suspended are:
Fraud
Professional incompetence
Misleading or deceptive practices
Criminal convictions
Aiding unlicensed individuals
Failure to comply with regulations
Practicing on a lapsed license
Willful or repeated violations of regulations governing HVACR professionals
Licensees can also face disciplinary action if they fail to report changes in business or personal information to the board or fail to respond to an investigation or complaint.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Michigan HVAC license regulations you can refer to the official Michigan Compiled Laws.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed HVAC Work in Michigan?
Performing HVACR/Mechanical work in Michigan without a license is illegal. In fact, performing unlicensed work can result in misdemeanor charges, fines between $5,000 and $25,000 for the first offense, and up to one year in jail. If the unlicensed work causes injury, the charge can be upgraded to a felony with a penalty of two years in jail.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Michigan HVAC license regulations you can refer to the official Michigan Compiled Laws.
Continuing Education
While there is no continuing education requirement for Michigan Mechanical Contractors, you’ll still want to stay current with HVAC industry news.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all HVAC industry news several ways:
Check top HVAC blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends.
Listen to top HVAC podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive HVAC business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000 contractors across the country.
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